From the Guidelines
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a widely used osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal tract to soften stool and promote bowel movements, with a typical adult dose of 17 grams of powder dissolved in 8 ounces of water, taken once daily, as supported by recent clinical guidelines 1.
Mechanism of Action
PEG functions primarily as an osmotic laxative when used medically, creating an osmotic gradient that increases water content in the intestinal lumen without being absorbed into the bloodstream, making it generally safe for most patients including pregnant women, children, and the elderly 1.
Clinical Use
For constipation treatment, PEG is available in various formulations including MiraLAX, GlycoLax, and GoLYTELY, with the latter being used for bowel preparation before colonoscopy at higher doses 1.
- The dose for constipation is typically 17 grams of powder dissolved in 8 ounces of water, taken once daily for up to 7 days.
- Side effects are typically mild and may include bloating, gas, or nausea.
- Recent studies, such as those cited in the american gastroenterological association-american college of gastroenterology clinical practice guideline, have demonstrated the efficacy of PEG in treating chronic idiopathic constipation 1.
Safety and Versatility
Beyond its laxative use, PEG is also used as an excipient in many medications, as a base in skin creams, and in various industrial applications due to its versatility and safety profile 1.
- Its hydrophilic properties make it an ideal compound for various applications.
- The safety of PEG has been established through numerous studies, including randomized, placebo-controlled trials 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
ACTIVE INGREDIENT (IN EACH DOSE) (Bottle Only) Polyethylene Glycol 3350,17 g (cap filled to line) (Packet Only) Polyethylene Glycol 3350,17 g PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL Polyethylene glycol 3350 powder for oral solution bottle label Polyethylene glycol 3350 powder for oral solution carton label WARNINGS Allergy alert: Do not use if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol
Definition of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is an active ingredient in certain medications, specifically polyethylene glycol 3350, which is used as a powder for oral solution.
- It is listed as an active ingredient in the drug label 2.
- The drug label also provides a warning for individuals who are allergic to polyethylene glycol 2. The FDA drug label does not provide a detailed definition or description of what Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is.
From the Research
Definition and Properties of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a non-absorbable, non-metabolised osmotic agent 3
- PEG 3350 is used in lavage solutions for gut cleansing 3
- It is an osmotic laxative that can be used to treat constipation 4
Uses of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
- PEG is used for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy 5, 6
- It is used to treat chronic constipation 3, 4, 7
- PEG 3350 is available over-the-counter (OTC) for the treatment of constipation 4
Efficacy and Safety of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
- PEG 3350 has been shown to be effective in treating chronic constipation 3, 7
- It has been compared to other treatments such as lactulose and found to be more effective 3
- PEG 3350 is safe and well-tolerated for use in patients with chronic constipation 7
- The efficacy and safety of 1 L vs 2 L Polyethylene Glycol With Ascorbic Acid for colonoscopy have been compared, with 1 L-PEG/Asc being found to be non-inferior to 2 L-PEG/Asc 6